Hugh Jackson wins 2025 FMG Young Farmer of the Year title

The final marked the culmination of months of qualifying rounds and regional competitions, and a return to the national stage for Hugh after a previous grand final appearance.

Jackson, 27, is involved in running a 1800ha sheep and beef operation at Te Akau alongside his parents, John and Jenny, and their “awesome farm team”. As a fourth-generation farmer, Jackson is continuing the legacy of his great-grandfather, who first purchased 600 acres in 1947 after returning from WWII.

Jackson, involved with Young Farmers since 2017, is the chair of his local Hamilton City Young Farmers club this year.

After competing multiple times in the Young Farmer of the Year, finally taking out the title has been a long-held goal, that Jackson admitted it was still sinking in.

For the next 12 months as the title winner, he is eagerly awaiting all the opportunities that will come his way.

“I’m looking forward to rubbing shoulders with people I haven’t had the opportunity to meet and really see it as a learning and career-enhancing experience,” he said.

As part of his win, Jackson drove away with a New Holland Boomer 25C tractor, awarded by one of the competition’s major sponsors, New Holland.

Karl Harvey, CNH product specialist, tractors and grape harvesters, said New Holland was proud to continue its support of New Zealand young farmers, helping encourage the next generation to grow and evolve the industry.

“As the 57th winner of this title, Hugh embodies all the attributes that make this award so special. His knowledge, innovative thinking, passion and mental strength really shone through, and he’ll have so much to offer other young farmers, and the sector, as he fulfils all the opportunities open to him over the next 12 months,” Karl said.

Jackson said he was grateful for the ongoing support of sponsors like New Holland for the award.

“It’s great that the sponsors see and want to contribute to the value of this award, recognising their support helps secure the future of agriculture in New Zealand,” he said.